Al‑Shabaab has seized Tardo town in central Somalia’s Hiiraan region, according to military officials—marking the militant group’s latest territorial gain in a string of recent offensives across central Somalia.
Fall of Tardo Town: A Major Blow
On Sunday, Al‑Shabaab militants launched a coordinated assault that overwhelmed government-aligned clan fighters, forcing their retreat and capturing Tardo town—a pivotal crossroads linking major urban centres across Hiiraan, Middle Shabelle, and Galgadud.
The fall of Tardo follows similar recent events, including the capture of Muqokori, indicating a consistent push deeper into central Somalia.
Humanitarian Toll
Somali MP Dahir Amin reported more than 12,500 families have been displaced from Tardo and Muqokori due to the escalating violence.
The displacement adds to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region—a pattern tragically common during Al‑Shabaab offensives.
Somali Counter‑Efforts
In response, the Somali government dispatched approximately 100 soldiers to reinforce clan militias and launch a counterattack aimed at reclaiming Tardo town and preventing further militant advances.
Additionally, Somali security leaders and clan elders convened in late May to strategize defense in Tardo, reinforcing collaboration between federal forces, local militias, and community leaders.
Aerial Strikes Over Hiiraan
On the same day as Tardo’s fall, local authorities reported airstrikes targeting Al‑Shabaab positions in the region: at least seven militants were reportedly killed, and two technical vehicles destroyed.
Details on the attackers remain unclear, but these operations demonstrate continued military efforts to disrupt militant control in Hiiraan.
Al‑Shabaab’s Broader Strategy
The militant group, affiliated with al‑Qaeda, has intensified its 2025 campaign across Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle, aiming to recover territory lost in 2022’s counteroffensive by Somali and AU forces.
Since February 2025, Al‑Shabaab has mounted coordinated attacks using roadside bombs and ground assaults across central Somalia, signaling a high-risk escalation.
What Happened Last Week?
Last week, Tardo town remained under militant control, but aerial campaigns continued targeting Al‑Shabaab positions.
At least seven militants were killed, and their vehicles destroyed.
Somali units and allied militias conducted localized counter‑operations, with senior security officials meeting clan elders to reinforce defenses and plan a coordinated pushback.
Outlook & Strategic Implications
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Territory | Tardo is part of a critical logistical network—its loss threatens supply routes and local stability. |
| Military | Deployment of reinforcements and airstrikes show Somalia’s intent to regain control—but operation faces terrain and militant entrenchment challenges. |
| Humanitarian | Thousands displaced, sparking urgent needs for aid coordination and risk of prolonged instability. |
| Al‑Shabaab Strategy | Strengthening presence in central Somalia—a shift from previous focus on southern strongholds. |
Final Take
The takeover of Tardo last week has underscored the volatile and escalating nature of the conflict in central Somalia.
Somali forces are mounting a determined response, combining ground reinforcements, aerial assaults, and local alliances.
The next few weeks will be pivotal in determining whether the government can reverse Al‑Shabaab’s gains and restore security to the region.
Source: Omni
